10 Things to Do Before Closing on Your New Home
10 Things to Do Before Closing on Your New Home
Closing day is an exciting milestone in the homebuying journey. After months of planning, choosing your home and watching construction progress, you’re almost ready to get the keys and make your new house a home.
While closing can feel like the finish line, there are a few important things to take care of beforehand. A little preparation can help make the process smoother and give you peace of mind as you get ready for move-in day.
Here are 10 things to do before closing on your new home:
1. Confirm Your Closing Date and Time
Make sure you know exactly when and where your closing will take place. Confirm the date, time and location with your lender or closing agent, and ask if there is anything you need to bring with you.
2. Review Your Final Loan Documents
Take time to review your final loan documents and make sure you understand the terms of your mortgage before your closing. Pay attention to important details such as your loan amount, interest rate, monthly payment and closing costs. If you have questions about your mortgage or closing documents, contact your lender before closing day rather than waiting until the last minute.
3. Secure Homeowners Insurance
Your homeowners insurance should be in place before you close on your new home. Your lender will typically require proof of insurance, so make sure your policy is active and that the necessary information has been provided to your lender.
4. Schedule Your Utility Transfers
Contact your utility providers ahead of time to arrange service for your new home. Depending on your location, this may include electricity, water, sewer, gas, internet and other services. Scheduling these in advance can help ensure everything is ready when you move in.
5. Arrange Your Closing Funds
Find out exactly how much money you’ll need to bring to closing and confirm the acceptable payment method with your closing agent. This may include a wire transfer or cashier’s check.
Important: If you are wiring funds, verify all wire instructions directly with your closing agent using a trusted phone number. Real estate wire fraud is a serious concern, so never rely solely on emailed instructions.
6. Bring a Valid Photo ID
You’ll generally need a valid government-issued photo ID to complete the closing process. Confirm with your closing agent which forms of identification are accepted so you’re prepared when you arrive.
7. Schedule Your Movers
If you’re hiring professional movers, reserve your moving date as early as possible. If you’re moving yourself, reserve a moving truck or trailer ahead of time. Having your moving plans in place can make the transition into your new home much less stressful.
8. Measure Spaces for Furniture and Appliances
Before moving day, take measurements of rooms, doorways and other spaces where you plan to place large furniture or appliances. Knowing your dimensions ahead of time can help you determine what will fit and where everything should go.
9. Prepare a First-Night Essentials Box
The first night in your new home will be exciting but can also be a little hectic. Especially if most of your belongings are packed away. Prepare a box or bag with essentials such as toiletries, medications, chargers, pajamas, a change of clothes, paper towels, basic cleaning supplies and anything else your family may need that first night.
10. Save Important Contact Numbers
Keep important contact information handy as you transition into your new home. Save the phone numbers for your builder, warranty team, lender and closing agent so you know who to contact if questions come up after closing.
Get Ready for Closing Day
Closing on your new home is an exciting step toward homeownership. By taking care of these details ahead of time, you can spend less time worrying about last-minute tasks and more time looking forward to moving in.
At Holiday Builders, we’re committed to making the homebuying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From choosing your home to closing day and beyond, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step toward a new home? Explore Holiday Builders communities and find a home that fits your lifestyle.
Tags: first-time homebuyers, homeowner tips
